The staff is comprised of two board-certified neonatologists (specialized physicians that provide comprehensive care for critically ill premature and full term infants) and neonatal nurse practitioners on staff to provide continuous care for your new baby.

The STPH NICU allows you to "Room In" just prior to discharge so you can feel confident to care for you new baby once home. The rooming-in room, which has an open visitation policy for parents and grandparents, is adjacent to the NICU.
Babies may stay with us for just a few days, several weeks or sometimes even months. The end goal is to get you and your baby healthy and home as soon as possible.

CAR SEAT TESTING

The NICU staff will perform a car seat test on every infant born at 37 weeks or sooner. During the test, the premature baby is securely fastened into their own car seat, which is placed at the correct angle for riding in the car.

The infant is connected to an NICU monitor to measure his or her heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation and color for 60 minutes. If the or she fails the test, it will be repeated after a few days. If this test is failed for a second time, the neonatologist will discuss options for discharge.

CHILDHOOD IMMUNIZATIONS

Childhood immunizations are offered to infants who remain in the NICU for several months. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends infants are immunized with the Hepatitis B vaccine before discharge. If an infant’s length of stay is up to or beyond two months of age, two-month immunizations will be offered.

Click here for the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals' immunization schedule for children.

PUMP AT THE BEDSIDE

STPH has International Board Certified Lactation Consultants on hand to assist you with breastfeeding, pumping, milk production, and equipment rentals and purchases. The NICU has breast pumps on wheels that can be moved to your baby’s bedside so you can pump while bonding with your infant. Breast pumping kits should be brought with you to pump at the bedside. Additional pumping supplies and parts are available for purchase in our Lactation Boutique.

For questions about pumping breast milk, breastfeeding, rental or the purchase of supplies call (985) 898-4446 to speak with one of our board-certified lactation consultants.